BSc Criminology and Sociology

This interdisciplinary program explores the complexities of crime, criminal behavior, and societal responses, while also focusing on social structures, inequalities, and the role of institutions in shaping social behavior. It equips students with the analytical tools to understand how crime intersects with broader social issues such as class, race, and gender.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc Criminology and Sociology program at Cardiff University is designed to offer both a broad understanding and specialized knowledge in these two dynamic fields. Core modules typically include topics such as the sociology of crime, crime prevention, social theory, social justice, and the criminal justice system. Students also have the flexibility to choose optional modules that allow them to delve deeper into areas such as criminological research methods, policing, social policy, and global justice systems, enhancing their knowledge base and skill set.

Research Focus: Cardiff University is known for its strong research culture, and the BSc Criminology and Sociology program reflects this with a focus on contemporary social issues and crime-related research. The university's criminology and sociology departments engage in research that examines the social causes and consequences of crime, the impact of policies on vulnerable communities, and the effectiveness of criminal justice practices. Students are encouraged to develop their own research skills and may have opportunities to participate in ongoing academic research projects.

Industry Engagement: The BSc Criminology and Sociology program incorporates valuable industry engagement, offering students opportunities to apply their learning in real-world settings. Students can benefit from internships, work placements, and partnerships with criminal justice organizations, social service agencies, and community projects. This hands-on experience helps students develop practical skills in research, analysis, and policy application, enhancing their employability upon graduation.

Global Perspective: The program takes a global perspective on criminology and sociology, recognizing the interconnectedness of social issues across national borders. Students explore international criminal justice systems, global social issues such as migration and human rights, and the role of transnational organizations in shaping social policies. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in international contexts or to understand how local issues fit within broader global frameworks.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

International Foundation Programme Scholarships: For international students who need to complete a foundation year before beginning an undergraduate degree, Cardiff University offers scholarships to cover part of the foundation year tuition fees. This scholarship supports students in their transition to full-time degree programs at the university.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

Graduates of the BSc Criminology and Sociology program at Cardiff University have diverse career opportunities in sectors related to criminal justice, social policy, and social research. The interdisciplinary nature of the program, combining criminology and sociology, equips students with the skills necessary to work in a variety of roles that address crime, social inequalities, and policy-making.

Criminal Justice Professional: Graduates can pursue careers as police officers, probation officers, or forensic experts, working directly in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.

Social Researcher: With their strong research training, graduates can become social researchers, working in academic institutions, think tanks, or governmental agencies to study crime, social behavior, and policy effectiveness.

Social Worker: With a solid understanding of sociology and criminology, graduates can pursue careers as social workers, helping individuals and families navigate social challenges related to crime and welfare.

Policy Analyst: Graduates can work for government agencies, NGOs, or consultancy firms, analyzing social policies and advising on their effectiveness in areas like crime reduction, social welfare, and rehabilitation.

Youth Offending Officer: Many graduates take roles working with at-risk youth, providing support and intervention in preventing crime and social exclusion, and advocating for restorative justice practices.

Community Outreach Coordinator: With strong sociological insights, graduates can work in community development roles, addressing social issues such as inequality, homelessness, and crime prevention.

Criminal Intelligence Analyst: Working in law enforcement or private security, these professionals analyze data related to crime patterns and trends to inform crime prevention strategies.

Human Rights Advocate: Graduates with a passion for social justice may work in organizations that advocate for human rights, focusing on criminal justice reform, inequality, and the protection of marginalized communities.